Falconer relishing the new challenge with Bannsiders

Waterside man Garth Falconer is loving life with Coleraine.

The former Newbuildings United man - who attracted interest from other Irish League clubs – was delighted to pen a one-year contract with the Bannsiders and admitted talking with Oran Kearney was the deciding factor.

“I had one serious offer from another club, but as soon as I spoke with Oran and listened to his plans with the club I knew I wanted to sign,” stated the 25-year-old.

“It is a new challenge here and I am relishing the prospect of playing in the Irish League.

“I knew that the manager wanted to sign a natural left-back and that was another deciding factor in my decision to come to Coleraine.”

The former Institute full-back is hoping to nail down a first-team spot at The Showgrounds as well as helping his new club climb up the Irish Premiership table next season.

“From a personal point of view, I would like to get into the first-team here at Coleraine and help the club improve on last season’s league position,” he said.

“I think the manager will be hoping for a cup run and for us to finish in the Europa League play-off positions.

“I have been very impressed by what I’ve seen so far.

“We have a very good squad here and I can’t wait to get the season started properly.

“I played with Ruairi Harkin before and he is a quality player, the likes of Neil McCafferty and Stephen Douglas have been excellent in training.

“It all bodes very well for the season ahead.

Falconer has settled into life at The Showgrounds with ease scoring a goal in his debut against Moyola Park, although he did reveal it has been a step up from what he is used to

“I have enjoyed pre-season so far and the training has been at a higher level than what I’ve been used too,” he said.

“The lads have all made me very welcome though so I have settled in well.

“As I’m from Drumahoe, I would know Darren McCauley and David Ogilby quite well and as I said I feel that I’ve settled in amongst the other players.”

Meanwhile tickets are currently on sale for the glamour friendly against a Rangers XI priced at £10 and £5 for concessions.